This is a huge park, neatly encircling part of San Francisco while protecting 28 miles of shoreline in San Francisco, Marin, and San Mateo counties. This includes ocean beaches, redwood forests, lagoons, marshes, former military properties, Fort Mason and Alcatraz Island. Also included are Fort Point National Historic Site and Muir Woods National Monument

What You're Going to See

Don't rely on me to sell the beauty of the San Francisco area. It's world-famous for all it has to offer, and this Recreation Area highlights many cool things. There are parks for picnicking, cycling, jogging, hiking; there is coastline for surfing and board sailing (if you're brave) and wildlife-watching. The Presidio is here, various forts are here, and the City is immediately adjacent.

Personal Observations

It's beautiful, green, and usually cool. I like so many parts of California and this is one of my favorites. There's something for everyone. I recommend taking a ferry to explore Alcatraz Island; get a picture of yourself "locked" in a cell!

Everything they say about San Francisco weather is true. In summer, in winter, dress to be warm or cold, or for rain or shine.